Tosha Larios Food as Medicine: How What You Eat Can Heal You

Food as Medicine: How What You Eat Can Heal You

By Tosha Larios

Have you ever heard the saying, “You are what you eat”? It’s more than just a catchy phrase—it’s true! The food we eat has the power to heal our bodies, boost our energy, and even prevent diseases. This idea is called “food as medicine,” and it’s something I’m really passionate about. Hi, I’m Tosha Larios, and today I’m going to share with you how the right foods can make a big difference in your health and well-being.

What is Food as Medicine?

Food as medicine means using the nutrients in food to support your body’s natural healing processes. Instead of relying only on medications, you can eat foods that help keep you healthy. For example, fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly. By eating a balanced diet, you can give your body the tools it needs to fight off sickness, improve your mood, and stay strong.

I’ve written a lot about this concept on my Food as Medicine blog, where you can learn more about which foods are the most powerful for your health.

Foods That Heal

There are many different types of foods that can help you feel better and live healthier. Here are just a few examples:

• Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are full of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. These nutrients help strengthen your bones, boost your immune system, and even improve your skin.

• Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants, which protect your body from harmful molecules called free radicals. Eating berries regularly can help lower your risk of heart disease and cancer.

• Garlic: Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. It has powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a great food to eat when you’re trying to prevent colds or other infections.

• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are full of healthy fats that support brain health. They can also help reduce inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases.

If you’re interested in how farming sustainably can provide you with fresher, healthier food, check out Star Track Farm, where we focus on growing food in ways that benefit both the planet and your body.

The Science Behind Food as Medicine

You might be wondering how food can really be medicine. It all comes down to the nutrients. Different foods contain vitamins, minerals, and compounds that your body needs to stay healthy. For example, vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, helps repair tissues and keeps your immune system strong. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are good for your heart and brain.

Science shows us that the nutrients in food affect every part of our body. When you eat a diet rich in whole, natural foods, you’re giving your body the fuel it needs to function at its best. For more in-depth information on how food and science connect, visit my STEM blog, where I share resources on the science behind healthy eating.

How to Use Food as Medicine

If you want to start using food as medicine, the first step is to look at what’s on your plate. Aim to fill it with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Eat the Rainbow: Try to include a variety of colors in your meals. Different colored foods contain different nutrients, so the more colors you eat, the more balanced your diet will be.

• Avoid Processed Foods: Foods that come in a package or are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats can make you feel sluggish and increase your risk of chronic diseases. Stick to whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.

• Hydrate with Water: Drinking enough water is just as important as eating the right foods. Water helps your body absorb nutrients, flush out toxins, and stay energized throughout the day.

You don’t have to make huge changes all at once. Start small by adding more fresh fruits and veggies to your meals and cutting back on sugary snacks. Little by little, you’ll start to feel the difference in your energy levels and overall health.

My Journey with Food as Medicine

For me, food as medicine is more than just an idea—it’s a way of life. As someone who works on a farm and helps others understand the power of food, I’ve seen firsthand how changing your diet can change your life. Whether I’m growing fresh produce at Star Track Farm or sharing recipes on my Food as Medicine blog, I love helping people find natural ways to improve their health.

I also share tips on how to make smart financial decisions while living a healthy lifestyle over on my ToshaLarios.com. You can find advice on everything from sustainable farming to saving money while eating well.

Start Your Journey Today

If you’re ready to start using food as medicine, I encourage you to explore your local farmers’ markets, try new recipes, and pay attention to how the food you eat makes you feel. Every healthy choice you make is a step towards a happier, healthier you.

For more inspiration and tips, check out my blog at ToshaLarios.com, and don’t forget to visit Star Track Farm for fresh, sustainably grown produce that will help you live your best life.

Together, we can use the power of food to heal our bodies and protect our planet. #FoodAsMedicine #ToshaLarios #HealthyEating #SustainableFarming #FarmToTable #HealingWithFood #WellnessJourney